Roma signed two players in quick succession, with Balerdi and De Roon both joining the team.

Roma released a statement on Sunday confirming the completion of two signings. They first brought in Argentine center-back Leonardo Balerdi on loan from Marseille, and then signed Atalanta midfielder Marten De Roon.

The official announcement also confirmed that Balerdi will wear the number 26 jersey for Roma. As for De Roon, he will wear the number 15 jersey for the Giallorossi starting this season.

Balerdi

The 27-year-old Balerdi came through Boca Juniors' youth academy and joined Marseille on a loan-to-buy deal in July 2020. To date, he has made 200 appearances for Marseille, contributing 6 goals and 3 assists.

According to the official statement, Balerdi will play for Roma until the end of the 2026/27 season. His loan fee is approximately €1 million, with a conditional mandatory purchase clause of €17 million attached to the contract.

There are also reports that Roma will cover all of Balerdi's salary during his loan spell.

For Balerdi, joining Roma was based on multiple considerations: "First of all, I've had a special fondness for the Giallorossi jersey since I was a child. I've always thought it was very beautiful. That's why I wanted to play for Roma. Even when I was far away from home, I felt the passion of the club and the fans. I've always longed to join Roma and play for them."

“Right now, I want to thank the club for their trust in me. I hope to get to know everyone, especially my new teammates. However, I also want to especially thank the fans who have been waiting for me.”

Deron

Roma's other signing is Dutchman De Roon. According to the official statement, the two sides have signed a two-year contract.

All indications suggest that De Roon's transfer fee was €1 million plus bonuses. His move to Roma also means De Roon will reunite with his longtime coach, Gian Piero Gasperini.

The 35-year-old De Roon previously played for several clubs, including Sparta Rotterdam, Heerenveen, Atalanta, and Middlesbrough, before returning to Atalanta in August 2017. He spent ten seasons with Atalanta, making 445 appearances, scoring 23 goals and providing 32 assists, and winning one Europa League title with the team.

Image source: Internet/X